MBTA Capital Spending: Derailed by Expansion?

In a major study of the T's capital spending, the Taxpayers Foundation concludes that the multi-billion dollar cost of proposed expansion projects threatens the T's ability to achieve improved services and stronger finances, the twin goals of forward funding. The report demonstrates that the MBTA cannot afford the projects without sacrificing critical maintenance and modernization of the existing system or incurring an even higher mountain of debt. MTF recommends that the Commonwealth, in addition to the current state subsidy of 20 percent of the sales tax, assume financial responsibility for expansion projects as a part of a statewide transportation strategy.